The Ford SYNC system is now available on more than 4 million vehicles on the road. The feature is available either as an option or standard equipment on every new Ford model sold in North America. Ford now says that it will go ahead and offer the SYNC system as standard equipment on the new Ford Fusion and Flex.

Check out our original post on the Ford Fusion.

“Ford SYNC technology has led the industry in transforming the way we connect to our cars,” said Dave Mondragon, Ford general marketing manager. “SYNC has enabled Ford drivers to take advantage of the latest communication and entertainment technology with an easily upgradeable architecture that is friendly to use.”

Every new 2013 Ford Fusion model and Flex model will come with SYNC whether it has an entry-level audio system or FoMoCo’s MyFord Touch infotainment system. Those with compatible phones and media players can be connected to SYNC through a standard USB port or wirelessly via Bluetooth.

- By: Omar Rana

The Microsoft powered Ford Sync system has made its way into a million vehicles this year, putting the overall Sync-equipped vehicles sales at 4 million.

Sync will be launched globally this year, and is projected to hit 9 million consumers by 2015. The technology was intergraded back in 2007 and has since seen upgrades such as Sync 911 Assist, Sync cloud-based services, AppLink for apps like Pandora, and Operator Assist.

The Sync technology will continue to grow with consumer needs due to its Microsoft Windows Embedded Automotive platform, which turns sync-equipped vehicles into “upgradable cars” as improvements and upgrades can always be implemented without interference.

Ford’s North American line now has Sync available on every model, some, such as the Flex and the Fusion, come standard. Seems like Ford’s technology and promotional advancements have paid off, as it seems this will only help the brand grow.

By: Alexandra Koken

The upgraded MyFord Touch system will debut at the 2011 LA Auto Show and will first be offered with the new 2013 Ford Escape (which will also debut in LA), Flex and Taurus.

Existing MyFord Touch owners will be able to upgrade their system for free.

“SYNC has clearly been a game-changing technology and now we’re changing the game again, showing how quickly we can deliver more of what customers really want,” said Graydon Reitz, director, Ford Global Electronics and Electrical Systems Engineering. “Our strategy to create the SYNC software platform and add the customizable screens of MyFord Touch gives us a level of flexibility and speed to respond to customer input like never before seen in the auto industry.”

Ford says the new system’s touchscreen interface features simpler graphics and controls that are easier to use.

Hit the jump for the list of new features and a video of the new MyFord Touch system in action.

New features

Ford also took the opportunity to update the performance of the system and add new features for customers to help them keep pace with the fast-moving consumer electronics market.

Faster touch-screen response time, for example, was a key request from owners. Initial testing shows that touch and voice response is at least two times faster than the current system.

Also, the software upgrade includes the following enhancements:

• Improved voice recognition experience powered by Nuance

• Quicker voice recognition upon startup and faster command prompt when the voice button is pushed
• Voice commands used in conjunction with navigation are simplified through elimination of the need to provide street direction, e.g., “Main Street” instead of “North Main Street”
• Music requests are simpler by removing the need to include the additional song, album or artist information often found at the end of a name in parenthesis or brackets
• Customers can find their favorite sports team in action via new Sirius Game Finder simply by saying a command such as “Tune to Detroit Lions game”

• Music and other media content from most popular tablet computers like the Apple iPad can now be accessed through a simple USB connection

• Listen to Audible.com content using voice commands or the easy-to-use touch-screen controls

• Updated map views are richer and feature more 3D landmarks
• Views of freeway junctions and signs are enhanced through photorealistic screen images
• Smart routing options are provided based on a database of historical traffic patterns

• Automatic Bluetooth® connection upon vehicle entry has been improved
• Noise and echo cancellation during phone calls has been improved to enhance call quality

• Inclusion of the latest music metadata available enhancing the music playback experience
• Improved voice recognition for music search allowing drivers to pinpoint artists with hard-to-pronounce names or nicknames

- By: Omar Rana

The Do Not Disturb feature, which is available on all 2011 vehicles featuring SYNC with MyFord Touch, will now be available as a feature parents can control through MyKey.

“Adding Do Not Disturb to MyKey is yet another way Ford is helping parents to encourage their kids to drive safer,” said Andy Sarkisian, Ford Safety Planning and Strategy manager. “We are continually listening to our customers and responding to parents’ desire to make sure their kids are paying attention to the road, not their cell phone.”

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), teens are more likely to take risks such as speeding – a contributing factor in 30 percent of all fatal crashes. Teens also are less likely to wear safety belts than older drivers. With that figure in mind, the MyKey will have other features such as ‘No Belt, No Tunes,’ which will mute the audi system until occupants buckle up.

“Our dealers tell us that when they have a buyer with kids in the house and they mention the MyKey feature, every single one of them says, ‘How do I turn that on?’ Customers are very happy with the feature,” Sarkisian said.

- By: Omar Rana

According to Ford technology spokesman Alan Hall, FoMoCo plans on integrating a new feature into the SYNC infotainment system that will read out text messages for drivers. Known as the Message Access Profile or MAP, the applications will work with smartphones and can be accessed from the steering wheel.

The driver of a vehicle can have it read to him by pressing a button on the steering wheel. MAP also has 15 saved responses should the driver choose to respond to the text.

“This shows the ability of Sync to move along with innovations that are occurring in mobile phone technology,” Hall said. “The beauty behind Sync is that we can evolve and upgrade the system, so there’s a lot of opportunity for us to grow.”

The upgrade was announced in a statement this week.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Automotive News

Watch out OnStar, Ford Motor Co. has just announced that it is enhancing its SYNC experience by adding Operator Assist, a new free service that allows users to connect with a live operator. The feature is standard with SYNC services.

Customers driving SYNC Services-equipped Ford cars and trucks now can talk to live operators when seeking directions or searching for business addresses. The SYNC Services provides access to information about traffic, news, sports, weather, horoscopes, stock quotes and movie listings along with business searches and turn-by-turn directions

“This isn’t just about offering customers a back-up option to the services we have already. This is about giving customers a variety of choices when it comes to how they would like to receive information,” said Doug VanDagens, director, Ford Connected Services Solutions Organization.

Hit the jump for the press talk.

Press Release:

Live Operator Assistance Now Standard Feature of Ford SYNC Services Following Successful Trial

DEARBORN, Mich., Sept. 20, 2011 – In a step to further enhance the SYNC® experience, Ford is adding Operator Assist, a new free service that allows users to connect with a live person, as a standard feature of SYNC Services.

Previously in beta test trial phase, the service is now available as part of SYNC Services and joins the growing list of cloud-based driver assistance features offered by Ford Motor Company.

How it works

Cloud-based, on-demand, voice-activated SYNC Services provides access to information about traffic, news, sports, weather, horoscopes, stock quotes and movie listings along with business searches and turn-by-turn directions. Seventy percent of all SYNC Services calls are for business searches and from those seeking turn-by-turn directions, said David Gersabeck, product manager, SYNC Services.

Using advanced vehicle sensors, integrated GPS technology and comprehensive map and traffic data, the SYNC Services automated voice recognition system delivers turn-by-turn directions to the user. Further, with access to more than 14 million business listings, SYNC Services directs users to the businesses they seek. Operator Assist works with both the business search and directions options.

At any time during a business search or directions interaction between the user and the SYNC Services automated system, the user can say, “Operator,” confirm his or her request to speak with an operator, and connect to a live operator.

In the event a user says an address or business that the voice recognition system can’t identify, the user will be prompted with the option to connect to a live operator. If the user confirms he or she would like to speak with an operator for further assistance, the system automatically connects the user to the live operator.

“This is more than getting from point A to point B,” said Gersabeck. “It’s about delivering a level of connectivity that provides fast, hands-free connections to businesses or residences without the need for drivers to take their eyes off the road.”

A beta test trial phase – started in spring and ended with the official launch of Operator Assist – found that drivers really like having the option of talking to a live person, said Gersabeck.

“The feedback was very positive,” he said. “Our operators were told by customers that they were very happy and surprised to have an option for additional help, especially when they realized it was a free service. They expected Ford to charge for these services like our competitors do.”

When a live operator assists with a business search, the user can choose to receive turn-by-turn directions to the business, receive a text message with name, address and phone number information about the business (applies to certain phone carrier networks), or be directly connected to the phone number of the business. When a live operator assists with address entry, the user can have the directions sent directly to the vehicle. When the information is sent or the user is connected to a business, a “session” has been completed.

New customers eligible for a three-year complimentary SYNC Services account will receive 60 Operator Assist sessions. Customers with an active SYNC Services account receive a number of complimentary sessions depending on the remaining duration of their SYNC Services account:

• Less than a year remaining, 20 complimentary sessions
• Between one and two years remaining, 40 complimentary sessions
• Between two and three years remaining, 60 complimentary sessions

Owners of Ford cars and trucks can go to syncmyride.com/support to:

• Buy a one-year SYNC Services subscription for $60, which includes 20 complimentary Operator Assist sessions
• Purchase additional Operator Assist sessions
• View how many Operator Assist sessions are available on their account

No in-vehicle software upgrade is required. The live operator services are provided by MyAssist, a leading live assistance and telematics service company for individuals and businesses based in Stevens Point, Wis.

- By: Omar Rana

Ford has just announced that it will be reducing the price of their SYNC system by $100 so that a broader range of customers can equip their cars with the latest in hands-free and in-car entertainment technology.

“Ford SYNC is making a difference. Our customers love it and recommend it, and our dealers want it on more products,” said Ken Czubay, Ford vice president, U.S. Marketing, Sales and Service. “SYNC already has brought hands-free, voice-activated in-car connectivity to millions, helping keep drivers’ eyes on the road and hands on the wheel. Now, Ford is making it even easier for customers to afford exactly what they want.”

Additionally, Ford also said that they conducted some studies show that 55% of smartphone owners prefer voice commands for their in-car user interface. So the SYNC has been made available at a cheaper price to ensure its availability for almost anyone buying a new Ford, which then translates into safer driving by keeping drivers from hand-held cell phone distractions through hands-free connectivity.

Launching first on the 2012 Ford Explorer and Edge, SYNCwill now be available as optional equipment on base trim levels, marking broader availability and more choice for customers. Vehicles next in line after the 2012 Explorer and Edge include the 2013 Ford Taurus, Focus, Escape and Flex.

“As the list of states banning hand-held calls and texting while driving continues to grow and legislators ponder a nationwide ban, Ford is strengthening its leadership position as the only full-line automaker with plans to offer available hands-free mobile device connectivity on 100 percent of its passenger vehicle lineup,” said Czubay.

- By: Chris Chin

In a move to attack General Motors’ OnStar service, Ford announced today that it is beta testing an “Operator Assist” feature for the cloud-based network of Sync services. The features will give users complimentary access to a live operator for help with business searches and address entry for turn-by-turn directions.

“Operator Assist is currently in a beta test trial phase and being offered as a complimentary feature for registered users of SYNC Services,” Ford said. “No additional software or hardware is needed.”

“Ford is committed to continuously improving the ownership experience and delivering the level of connectivity that customers want,” said Doug VanDagens, director, Ford Connected Services Solutions Organization. “By leveraging what’s available in the cloud, we continue to innovate and improve our customers’ experience without having to touch the vehicle or inconvenience the owner.”

Ford said that about 70 percent of calls to SYNC Services are for business searches and/or directions. The Sync services provide access to more than 14 million business listings.

- By: Omar Rana

FoMoCo has been sued by a small technology company in Washington that claims that it developed the technology behind the Ford Sync system. A federal lawsuit by Eagle Harbor Holdings alleges that Ford infringed on seven of its patents for the technology behind the Sync connectivity system and other safety technologies in Ford vehicles by Active Park Assist, Blind-Spot Identification System with Cross Traffic Alert, Integrated Control System for Stability Control, and MyKey.

General counsel for Eagle Harbor, Jeffery Harmes, said in a statement that representatives of the company began working with Ford in 2002 to develop and use the technology in vehicles. He said that the Dearborn automaker broke off talks with the company in 2008.

“Unfortunately, despite our many efforts to communicate with Ford and resolve these issues, Ford continues to refuse to license its use of our patented technology,” Harmes said. “Ford is ignoring our patent rights and continues to use, without permission or license, Eagle Harbor’s technology.”

A Ford spokeswoman said that the company won’t comment on the suit until it has reviewed it in full.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Automotive News

Ford is adding its award-winning SYNC AppLink software to a new line up of vehicles for 2012, making it available on a total of 10 models. The program gives access to, and voice control over, driver’s smartphone apps while mobile.

Doug VanDages, director of Ford Connected Services Solutions comments “We understand more and more drivers are using their devices and their apps while in the car…. Ford is a part of the solution, offering voice-activated options such as Ford SYNC with AppLink on a broader range of our products, which gives more customers a smarter way to access their apps while driving that keeps their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.”

Cars featuring the SYNC AppLink software will include the 2012 Ford Mustang, Shelby GT500, Fusion, Fusion Hybrid, and Fiesta. The F-150, F-150 SVT Raptor, Super Duty, Expedition, and E-series are also to come equipped with the software.

Plans for a sizable expansion are also set in place as Ford is expanding to 2,500 independent developers on its team, and plans for more job openings in its Connected Services Solutions Organization are set, as well. With this kind of expansion, expect to see more features and improvements for SYNC AppLink in the future.

- By: Alexandra Koken

Are you a fan of Fantasy Baseball? Do you own a Ford SYNC equipped model? You’re in luck. Ford has announced the it’s SYNC system will offer owners weekly player updates in their vehicle on-demand and hands-free with Traffic, Directions and Information Service.

“Using a properly paired Bluetooth-enabled phone with an active SYNC Services account, Ford owners can receive weekly player updates to find out who’s hot and who’s not,” Ford said. “Once connected to Services, the driver simply says ‘Sports,’ then ‘Baseball’ then ‘Fantasy Update.’ The weekly leaders in both the American League and National League are then read out aloud, along with hitting statistics including batting average, home runs, RBIs, stolen bases and runs scored. Pitching statistics include records, saves and strikeouts.”

“It’s been estimated that nearly 7 million people play fantasy baseball, and all of them scramble to get any kind of information about the very best players they should be putting in their lineups,” said David Gersabeck, SYNC Services product manager. “This is all about giving our customers what they want. The Fantasy Update feature on SYNC gives our customers fantasy baseball updates quickly and concisely using easy voice commands.”

Pretty ace for you baseball fans.

- By: Omar Rana

Want your vehicle’s infotainment system to tell you information about your health? Ford is working with some healthcare experts to bring that very feature to your next purchase from the Dearborn company.

Ford is researching a range of possible in-car health and wellness connectivity services and apps aimed at helping drivers with chronic illnesses or medical disorders such as diabetes, asthma or allergies manage their condition while they drive.

“Ford SYNC is well known in the industry and with consumers as a successful in-car infotainment system, but we want to broaden the paradigm, transforming SYNC into a tool that can help improve people’s lives as well as the driving experience,” said Paul Mascarenas, chief technology officer and vice president, Ford Research and Innovation.

Working with industry experts such as Medtronic, mHealth pioneer WellDoc, and SDI Health, Ford is using its SYNC system to develop a glucose device connectivity and monitoring capability, location-based allergy and pollen reports and voice-controlled, cloud-based health management services.

Check out the press release after the jump for more details.

Press Release:

• Ford researchers demonstrate a series of possible in-car health and wellness connectivity services and apps aimed at helping people with chronic illnesses or medical disorders such as diabetes, asthma or allergies manage their condition while on the go
• Leveraging Ford SYNC®, researchers developed glucose device connectivity and monitoring capability, location-based allergy and pollen reports and voice-controlled, cloud-based health management services
• Ford is working with leading healthcare industry experts such as medical device maker Medtronic, mHealth pioneer WellDoc®, and SDI Health, developers of the informational allergy website www.pollen.com, to develop its initial Health and Wellness connectivity portfolio

DEARBORN, Mich., May 18, 2011 – As Americans take a more active role in managing their health and well-being, Ford researchers are taking a leading role in developing a series of health and wellness in-car connectivity solutions designed to empower people with self-help information while they drive.

Leveraging Ford SYNC® and its ability to connect devices via Bluetooth, access cloud-based Internet services and control smartphone apps, Ford is taking charge in this automotive whitespace area, developing industry-first voice-controlled in-car connections to an array of health aids from glucose monitoring devices, diabetes management services, asthma management tools and Web-based allergen alert solutions.

Healthy statistics

Health of mind, body and spirit is a significant slice of a larger global health and wellness trend that is transcending multiple generations, spectrums and industries. So-called healthy homes, allergen-free cleaners and products, and the cosmetic and bariatric surgery boon, for example, are all converging to create an eclectic mash-up that is redefining health and wellness for today’s consumer.

An underlying consumer demand for being in the know about one’s health while on the go also continues to rise, fueling the growing number and breadth of mobile healthcare devices and health- and fitness-related software and smartphone applications hitting the market today.

According to a recent survey conducted by CTIA-The Wireless Association and Harris Interactive, for example, some 78 percent of U.S. consumers expressed interest in mobile health solutions. A recent study by digital messaging powerhouse MobileStorm further confirmed this phenomenon, indicating that medical and healthcare apps was the third fastest-growing category of smartphone applications in early 2010. The major app stores, such as the Apple App Store, are now housing upward of 17,000 available health apps for download, with nearly 60 percent of those aimed at consumers rather than healthcare professionals, reports mobile research specialist Research2Guidance.

“Wireless health provides an unprecedented ability for monitoring and promotion of health and wellness for all individuals,” said UCLA Electrical Engineering Professor William Kaiser, who has worked with NASA and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Science and Technology Directorate to study how wireless health technologies can be used to track an individual’s fitness and health status and help identify potential risks and challenges. “Studies show wireless health empowers people with information and guidance that can directly address the most important health concerns.

“The new Ford health and wellness connectivity solutions represent a fundamental advancement for these individuals,” Kaiser added, “providing them additional support and functionality during time spent in the vehicle.”

Constant connections
Taking a smart, high-volume approach to bringing mobile health and wellness solutions inside the car, Ford researchers are first looking at two populations with the most need for a constant connection to potentially life-saving medical information – people with diabetes and those with asthma and/or allergies.

According to the American Diabetes Association, nearly 26 million adults and children are currently living with diabetes in the U.S., 3-plus million more than there were four years ago. Numbers grow even higher for those with asthma and allergies, with the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America reporting some 60 million Americans have asthma and/or allergies.

To create relevant in-car features and services for those living with these ailments, Ford is working with experts in these fields, including medical device manufacturers, healthcare management service providers and Web-based medical alert services.

“Ford’s approach to health and wellness in the vehicle is not about trying to take on the role of a healthcare or medical provider, we’re a car company,” said Gary Strumolo, global manager, Interiors, Infotainment, Health & Wellness Research, Ford Research and Innovation. “Our goal is not to interpret the data offered by the experts, but to work with them to develop intelligent ways for Ford vehicles using the power of SYNC. In essence, creating a secondary alert system and alternate outlet for real-time patient coaching services if you will.”

For people with diabetes and their caregivers, constant knowledge and control of glucose levels is critical to avoiding hypoglycemia or low glucose, which can cause confusion, lightheadedness, blurry vision and a host of other symptoms that could be dangerous while driving. Many now depend on a portable continuous glucose monitoring device to track their levels.

Likewise, those with asthma and allergies need to have a clear understanding of their environment and potential symptom triggers – such as pollen levels in the air – that can quickly lead to an attack. Growing in popularity among this group are Web-based alert services and smartphone apps that can help flag dangerous pollen levels based on location.

Ford SYNC offers three unique ways to bring health and wellness connected services into the car:

• Device connectivity via Bluetooth – Leveraging Bluetooth, medical devices can be connected to the car to share information through SYNC, just like a driver connects and accesses his or her cellphone and address book by voice control

• Cloud-based services – Ford created an off-board network of location-based traffic, directions and information providers that drivers can simply access via their cellphone. Known as SYNC Services, new services such as medical services can be easily added through this plug-and-play voice-controlled capability

• AppLink – Ford’s latest SYNC innovation allows smartphone apps to be accessed by drivers via voice control. The SYNC application programming interface (API) allows app developers to enable their apps to communicate through SYNC, delivering a smarter way for drivers to manage apps while driving

The ongoing Ford health and wellness research projects encompassing these needs include:

• Glucose monitoring: Working with Medtronic, a leading manufacturer of glucose monitoring devices, Ford researchers have developed a prototype system that allows Ford SYNC to connect via Bluetooth to a Medtronic continuous glucose monitoring device and share glucose levels and trends through audio and a center stack display and provide secondary alerts if levels are too low.“To address the growing challenge of chronic diseases, Medtronic is collaborating with companies like Ford to develop innovative solutions,” said James Dallas, senior vice president, Medtronic. “Diabetes in particular is a chronic disease where frequent monitoring of blood glucose levels throughout the day is critical. As medical and consumer technologies converge, Medtronic is uniquely positioned to provide patients, caregivers and physicians with actionable insight from the data our devices can gather from the human body. By utilizing information technology and consumer electronic devices, we can help patients actively manage their health via access to real-time data on phones, hand-held devices or even in their cars.”

• Allergy alerts: Ford is working with SDI Health and www.pollen.com to SYNC-enable its smartphone Allergy Alert app through AppLink, giving users voice-controlled access to the app that provides location-based day-by-day index levels for pollen; asthma, cold and cough and ultraviolet sensitivity; as well as four-day forecasts.“Our developers initially created the iPhone app to provide users with greater access to the information they’ve come to rely on from pollen.com,” said Jody Fisher, vice president of Marketing for SDI. “Having instant, portable access for their conditions helps users plan their day or week ahead so they can remain active, which ultimately improves their quality of life.“Collaborating with Ford is the perfect extension of this objective,” Fisher said. “We are happy to support Ford’s initiative of connecting drivers with resources and services important to their health and wellness.”

• WellDoc: Ford and WellDoc, a recognized leader in the emerging field of mHealth integrated services, have joined forces to integrate in-car accessibility to WellDoc’s comprehensive cloud-based personalized solutions for those with asthma and diabetes through SYNC Services. Using voice commands, SYNC users could access and update their WellDoc profile to receive real-time patient coaching, behavioral education and medication adherence support based on their historic and current disease information.“WellDoc was founded on the concept of helping patients manage their disease with everyday, personal tools that are easy to use and can be easily accessed,” said Dr. Anand K. Iyer, president and COO of WellDoc. “Through our partnership with Ford, we’ve created a unique in-vehicle environment that supports patients so they can continuously maintain their daily routines without interruption.”

Well on the way
Although still in the prototype and research phase, Strumolo acknowledges that many of the health and wellness features and services being explored at Ford have fairly short-term implementation requirements, such as the Allergy Alert app.

Ford is also examining other more long-term health and wellness technologies and ideas related to, for example, heart rate, relaxation and reducing stress. Ford and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have long been studying the correlation between stressors and driving performance, wrapping up a nine-month advanced research project last fall that showed drivers are less stressed when using selected vehicle technologies such as Ford active park assist and cross-traffic alert.

“Health and wellness provides a tremendous opportunity for Ford to provide peace of mind and a personal benefit to drivers and passengers while they are in our vehicles,” said Strumolo. “As more and more devices and technologies lend themselves to such connectivity in the car, it is our responsibility, our philosophy, to examine those possibilities and open our doors to industry relationships that can help us do it intelligently, efficiently and economically.”

- By Omar Rana

2012 Ford Focus Interior

Ford’s SYNC services is going global and the company’s European customers will be among the first to benefit from the global launch when it makes its debut on the Ford Focus in 2012.

“We are pleased to announce that SYNC will soon be available to customers around the world,” Mulally said. “It is a smarter, safer and simpler way to connect drivers with in-car technologies and their digital lives. At Ford, we have always believed that the intelligent application of technology can help us deliver the very best customer experience and help us contribute to a better world, so we challenged ourselves to build technologically advanced cars that make driving greener, safer and smarter for all.”

Click here for more news on the Ford Focus.

Ford anticipates nearly 2 million new vehicles in Europe will feature the SYNC system by 2015. Drivers will be able to use SYNC voice-control technology in 19 languages, setting an industry benchmark for automotive voice recognition capability.

MyFord Touch will also be part of the SYNC’s Euro launch.

Refresher: The 2012 Ford Focus is powered by 2.0L DOHC inline 4-clyinder unit with twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT), direct gasoline injection and E85 flex fuel capability. The engine produces 160-hp and 146 lb-ft of torque. With the SFE (Super Fuel Economy) package, the Focus delivers an EPA-certified fuel-economy rating of 28/40 mpg (city/highway). The 2012 Focus is offered in S, SE, SEL and Titanium trim-levels with prices starting at $16,270.

2012 Ford Focus:

- By: Omar Rana

Chevrolet MyLink

General Motors has finally come up with something that will compete with the Ford SYNC and Toyota Entune. Known as the Chevrolet MyLink, the system provides a “higher level of in-vehicle wireless connectivity and customized infotainment options, plus the unmatched safety and security of OnStar.”

“There is a new generation of car buyers who don’t want to settle for mass market radio,” said Rick Scheidt, vice president of Chevrolet Marketing. “They want to create their own individual stations and have access to them wherever they are. Chevrolet vehicles have offered customers the ability to use portable media devices since 2006 and the introduction of MyLink takes media personalization to a new level. ”

MyLink keeps all the capabilities of today’s entertainment units, including AM/FM/XM tuners, CD player with MP3 playback, auxiliary and USB inputs.

The Chevrolet MyLink will be available first on the 2012 Chevrolet Volt and the 2012 Chevrolet Equinox. Both will go on sale later this year and will feature Chevrolet MyLink with online services including Pandora, Stitcher, hands-free and touchscreen controls. Following its debut, the MyLink services will be expanded to other vehicles in the Chevrolet lineup over the next 18 months.

Chevrolet also said that the MyLink and OnStar services will soon be joined by the Powermat charging system shown earlier this year.

Hit the jump to learn about the benefits of Chevrolet MyLink.

Chevrolet MyLink:

Among the new benefits provided by MyLink:

• Enhanced hands-free voice control system powered by Nuance®, which allows simple voice commands to initiate phone calls and select radio stations or media from portable MP3 players and smartphones. A tap of a button on the steering wheel enables intuitive verbal control of smartphone applications like “play (artist name)” or “call (name of contact)” to keep the driver’s hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.

• Pandora® internet radio allows users to create personalized radio stations based on favorite artists or genres and Stitcher SmartRadio® enables access to thousands of audio programming choices allowing customers to build a personalized listening experience. MyLink integrates control of both of these apps for a driver directed listening experience.

• Gracenote®: identifies the music collection on the driver’s smartphone or MP3 player and presents information such artist name, genres and album cover art on the MyLink screen and enables users to select similar music to the tunes they love. Gracenote also improves the accuracy of MyLink’s voice activation system by allowing users to access music using artist nicknames, such as “The Boss,” “G.N.R,” or “The Fab Four” simply by using MyLink’s touch-screen or steering wheel buttons and voice control interfaces.

• Upgraded USB connectivity: While Chevrolet has offered auxiliary device connectivity since 2006, MyLink adds flash memory capability to its USB device connections. This provides users with the ability to access approved applications that will make their MyLink system even more functional, while assuring that driver’s maintain eyes on the road and hands on the wheel.

- By: Omar Rana

Pandora on Toyota Entune

At the 2011 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, many automakers revealed the application of Pandora in vehicles. The Pandora internet-radio service has more than 75 million registered users and more than 50 million downloads for its app on smartphones.

At CES, Pandora and Toyota announced that they will provide the popular personalized internet radio service in Toyota’s Entune multimedia system. The service is already offered on Ford’s AppLink  system. So will Pandora stop taking over in-vehicle radio with just Ford and Toyota? Not at all, the Pandora services is also available on Hyundai’s new Blue Link system and much more

Here is a list of current in-car infotainment systems that support Pandora capability.

• Hyundai Blue Link: Hyundai Blue Link will launch next year on majority of 2013 model year vehicles.
• Ford SYNC AppLink: Available on the 2011 Ford Edge, Ford Explorer, Ford Fiesta, Lincoln MKX.
• GM Vehicles: Available on 2012 Buick Verano.
• Mini Connected: Available on new Mini models and will eventually be offered on BMW models.
• Pandora/Pioneer: Pioneer and Pandora have teamed up to offer the internet radio service on a new in-car device by Pioneer that runs for $1,200.
• Toyota Entune: Toyota offers the largest number of mobile apps with Bing, iheartradio, MovieTickets.com, OpenTable.com, and Pandora. Toyota Entune will be available as an option on select models this year.
• You can always… use your iPod Touch or iPhone if it Syncs seamlessly with your car.
• Of course, if you think we missed anything here you can add onto the list in the comments section after the jump…

- By: Omar Rana

SYNC AppLink on the 2012 Ford Mustang

Last month, Ford launched its SYNC AppLink, the industry-first software application that gives SYNC users hands-free voice control of their smartphone apps, on the 2011 Ford Fiesta.

FoMoCo has now confirmed that 2012 Ford Mustang owners are next in line for the SYNC AppLink features. The Mustang will be the first vehicle with AppLink integrated with Ford’s optional Voice-Activated Navigation System.

“Mustang is an exciting next addition to the AppLink portfolio, giving Ford the ability to offer more of our customers a smarter solution to using apps while in the car,” said Doug VanDagens, director of Ford Connected Services. “We continue to move quickly and migrate smart technologies across our vehicle portfolio that deliver solutions customers are demanding.”

Check out the press briefing after the jump.

SYNC AppLink on the 2012 Ford Mustang:

Press Release:

FORD MUSTANG OWNERS NEXT FOR SYNC APPLINK AND UNMATCHED VOICE CONTROL, ACCESS TO MOBILE APPS

• 2012 Ford Mustang owners are next in line for SYNC^® AppLink, the industry-first software application that gives SYNC users hands-free voice control of their smartphone apps
• Mustang will be the first vehicle with AppLink integrated with Ford’s optional Voice-Activated Navigation System, adding enhanced access
• SYNC AppLink for Mustang will first be demonstrated at the Pepcom Digital Experience, held in Las Vegas tonight, the day before the start of the 2011 International CES

DEARBORN, Mich., Jan. 5, 2011 – Ford will launch SYNC^® AppLink next as a factory-installed feature for the 2012 Ford Mustang. AppLink is the free software program that gives SYNC users voice control of apps stored on their smartphone.

Mustang will be the first vehicle that will offer AppLink with the standard SYNC interface, as well as be integrated into the optional Voice-Activated Navigation System, providing the additional convenience of an 8-inch touch screen for control.

Just a few weeks ago, Ford went live with AppLink as a download on www.syncmyride.com, available exclusively to 2011 Ford Fiesta owners for popular mobile apps, including Pandora internet radio, Stitcher news radio and OpenBeak.

Adding AppLink compatibility as factory-installed content to the iconic Mustang puts Ford further out front in the race to integrate smartphone apps into the car and shows the company’s commitment to offer advanced in-car connectivity services and features to a widening range of vehicle owners.

Recent studies indicate 46 percent of adult smartphone users have apps on their phones and 36 percent of those admit to using those apps while commuting.

Mustang owners have historically shown a strong desire for connectivity in the car, with nearly 75 percent of Mustang buyers opting for the SYNC system at purchase. And for those who also opt for the Voice-Activated Navigation System, AppLink will integrate app access and control through the system’s 8-inch touch screen.

“Our Voice-Activated Navigation System integration allows us to enrich the AppLink experience even further, giving customers an industry-first combination of voice control and touch-screen access to the apps stored on their mobile phones,” said Julius Marchwicki, Ford SYNC product manager.

Codeveloped with Ford, the Clarion Navigation System available on Mustang is loaded with a number of features and functions designed to provide customers a superior level of connectivity and information, including an extensive set of navigation tools as well as up-to-the-minute news about weather, traffic, fuel prices, movie listing and more through Sirius Travel Link^™.

Cool infotainment features are also abundant with the Ford Navigation System, including HD Radio^™ technology, a digital jukebox hard-drive that can store up to 2,400 songs and easy access and useful screen displays for SIRIUS XM Satellite Radio. And since the Navigation System is factory-installed, it also works seamlessly with SYNC.

The navigation screen menu for SYNC apps first lists available factory-installed system apps such as 911 Assist^™, Vehicle Health Report and SYNC Services through Traffic, Directions and Information. Tap the menu subset for Mobile Applications, and the Navigation System touch screen will then list the current SYNC-enabled apps found on the SYNC-paired smartphone that are ready for launch by voice command.

AppLink is currently compatible with Android and BlackBerry devices, and with Apple iPhone coming in early 2011. Current availability of SYNC-enabled apps:

Pandora

Apple iPhone: Coming early 2011
Android: Available now (V1.5.3 or higher)
BlackBerry: Available now (Version 1.1.6 or higher)

Stitcher

Apple iPhone: Coming early 2011
Android: Coming early 2011
BlackBerry: Late availability

OpenBeak

BlackBerry: Available now (Version 1.4 or higher)

- By: Omar Rana

Toyota Entune

Here’s your first automotive surprise from the 2011 Consumer Electronics Show – the Toyota Entune. For anyone familiar with the Ford SYNC, the Toyota Entune isn’t that far behind – however, with the Toyota Entune, a customer’s cell phone and their apps are used to create a rich in-vehicle experience.

“Consumers have grown accustomed to having the world at their fingertips through their mobile phones,” said Jon Bucci, vice president of the Advanced Technology Department at Toyota. “And unlike other industry solutions, Entune allows the driver to interact with informative and entertaining mobile content without fumbling with their phone. We offer features that our customers demand and integrate them seamlessly in the vehicle.”

Basically, this is Toyota solution to stop messing around with your phone while driving and concentrating on the road. The Toyota Entune uses industry-leading voice recognition and in-vehicle controls, so the driver never has to touch his/her phone once in the car. The Toyota Entune will be available in select vehicles this year and will launch with the largest number of mobile apps including Bing, iheartradio, MovieTickets.com, OpenTable.com, and Pandora.

Hit the jump for the press release and short video describing the Toyota Entune.

Toyota Entune:

Toyota Announces Entune Multimedia System at the 2011 Consumer Electronics Show

• Toyota Offers the Largest Number of Mobile Apps with Bing, iheartradio, MovieTickets.com, OpenTable.com, and Pandora
• Entune Boasts Industry-Leading Advanced Conversational Voice Recognition
• Toyota Entune Is Compatible with Most

LAS VEGAS, January 4, 2011 – Toyota Motor Sales (TMS) U.S.A., Inc. today unveiled the Toyota Entune™ multimedia system at the Consumer Electronics Show. Toyota Entune leverages the customer’s mobile phone to create a rich in-vehicle experience that offers fully integrated and upgradeable entertainment, navigation, and information services. By utilizing conversational voice recognition and in-vehicle controls, the driver doesn’t have to touch their mobile phone, allowing for safer connectivity. Toyota Entune simplifies the interaction for customers and will be available in select vehicles this year.

After downloading the Toyota Entune mobile application and pairing a Bluetooth capable phone with their Toyota vehicle, customers can begin accessing a wide variety of personalized content and services. Toyota Entune is wirelessly upgradeable, so in-vehicle applications are never obsolete. Ensuring that nearly all customers can take advantage of this new technology, Toyota Entune is compatible with a wide variety of mobile phones with a data plan. Toyota Entune key features include:

• Mobile Apps – Toyota Entune debuts Bing, keeping navigation continuously up to date with more than 16 million points of interest; OpenTable, make a reservation at one of 15,000 restaurants; and MovieTickets.com, buy movie tickets and read reviews. All destinations can be seamlessly sent to the navigation system. Making drivers’ lives even easier, Toyota Entune delivers customizable real time traffic, fuel prices, weather, stocks and sports.
• Music – Toyota Entune brings you more music in more ways with iheartradio’s 750+ hometown stations; personalized stations with Pandora; XM satellite radio 170+ channels with coast-to-coast coverage; and introducing HD Radio, digital broadcasts of your favorite terrestrial music. Toyota Entune also offers USB connectivity for portable media players and traditional terrestrial radio.
• Voice Recognition – Featuring a best-in-class, advanced conversational voice recognition system, Toyota Entune eliminates the need to memorize thousands of voice commands. The intuitive interface allows the driver to focus more on the road ahead.

“Toyota has always been a leader in the automotive industry, so it makes sense it would bring the latest in mobile technology to the car,” said Chris Daniels, general manager of Bing for Mobile, Microsoft Corp. “By bringing Bing Maps and Bing for Mobile technology to the car, we are helping Toyota enhance the overall in-vehicle experience to be as rich and robust as possible, which means personalizing the information to each driver’s needs.”

Safety Connect
Toyota Entune continues to build on the excellent foundation laid by Safety Connect, bringing peace of mind to drivers with an added layer of more personalized and convenience-oriented features. Safety Connect is the cornerstone of Toyota’s telematics systems providing Automatic Collision notification, Stolen Vehicle Location Assistance, Emergency Assistance, and Roadside Assistance on select Toyota models. Safety Connect combined with Toyota Entune offers comprehensive safety services and mobile applications not found in any other vehicle make.

Product Availability
Toyota Entune will be available as an option on select models this year. The featured apps of Toyota Entune include: Bing, iheartradio, MovieTickets.com, OpenTable.com, and Pandora, as well as location-based services, such as personalized traffic, fuel prices, stocks, weather, and sports. Toyota Entune also includes support for read-back and replay capabilities for text messages. These are combined with a fully featured entertainment and communication system, which includes XM radio, HD Radio, CD player, USB connectivity, Bluetooth streaming and phonebook. A high quality JBL sound system is available as an option as well.

- By: Omar Rana

Ford SYNC

Ford’s SYNC in-car connectivity system is celebrating 2011 with more than 3 million FoMoCo vehicles on the road with the technology since its introduction in late 2007.

“Ford SYNC is clearly making a difference in our customer experience,” said Ken Czubay, Ford vice president of U.S. Marketing, Sales and Service. “Not only is it proving to differentiate our products from the competition, SYNC is becoming a key point of satisfaction.”

Internal research by Ford shows that more than 80 percent of SYNC owners are likely to recommend the SYNC connectivity system to others, a 5 percentage point increase over last year. While we’re not big on voice recognition systems, Ford found that SYNC users love voice recognition with nearly a 70 percent usage rate while driving.

The SYNC system was introduced in 2007 and still keeps its introductory price of $395 for nearly all-new FoMoCo vehicles. It is also standard equipment on Lincoln models.

- By: Omar Rana